My quest to finding a mentor was not easy. I would identify women whom I thought would be a “good” fit, but for many reasons, they were not. I did not have all the answers during the first couple of times I met with several potential mentors, but I learned to at least have these basics ready for discussion. We both had to be clear on the amount of time we were both willing to put into the mentor/mentee relationship. We both had to be clear on what we had to offer each other. After all, the mentor/mentee relationship is a two-way street.​I have used LinkedIn and professional conferences to identify potential mentors. I was told NO and would often take it personal. Although it was a letdown to my ego, it turned out to not be the end of the world. In the long run, those rejections saved me time and mental anguish from a professional relationship that would have added nothing to my success.

I learned that having a mentor is just one piece to my success. Instead, I have surrounded myself with people that represent where I would like to be – today, tomorrow, 5 or 10 years from now.The 6 Essential People You Need in Your Network, (Bucklan, 2014) are:

A financial Guru – someone that is financial savvy

The Connector – someone that makes introductions and connections in your network

The Mentor – someone that inspires you

The Innovator – someone that keeps on top of the latest trends in your field

The Leader – someone that is a leader in your industry

The Frenemy – someone that provides friendly competition

Bucklan (2014) suggest that you want to assemble a diverse group of talent that is known as “social capital” in order for your network to really have an impact on your success. It is great to have a social media presence and “friends” in your circle, but quality counts over quantity.

Having these six types of people in my life has allowed me a well-rounded journey to success.

Do you have any of these people in your circle?​First published on LinkedIn - 4/1/17

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I am a determined, loving, loyal and perceptive therapist that helps professional women of color build their self-confidence to build a career and live a life worth living. I listen quietly and attentively remembering details to tell truths that need to be spoken. ​Learn more ​Aboutme